Massachusetts Hunter Safety Course

Chapter Summary

After reading Chapter 11, you should have knowledge of how to help prevent an outdoor emergency, and what to do if such an emergency occurs. Let's review these important steps:

Before leaving on any hunting trip, leave a detailed hunting plan with a responsible person. Include the time you leave, where you are going, who is with you, and when you expect to return.

Always carry a survival pack with you any time you leave the hunting camp or go on a hunting trip

Wear appropriate clothing for the hunt. Wool is the best material for all around warmth. Always wear good head covering - most body heat is lost through the head.

If you get lost, the first thing you should do is S.T.O.P. Stop, Think, Observe, and Plan.

Remember the big three of survival - Shelter, Fire, and Signal. A series of any three signals is recognized as a signal for help.

Food and water are also important survival needs. If you are lost, you can survive 2-3 days without water, and 2-3 weeks without food.

Avoid eating vegetation, unless you are sure you have properly identified the plant and are positive it is safe to eat.

Always carry a compass with you and know how to use it.

You should know how to read a topographic map, and carry one of the local area with you at all times when on a hunting trip.

You should be aware of the indicators of various medical emergencies in the field, and how to treat those conditions while out in the bush. When a medical emergency occurs in the field, the goal is not to cure, but to stabilize the person and transport them to an emergency medical facility as soon as possible.